Newcastle had the chance to move out of the relegation zone on Sunday. But by the time they face Liverpool on Thursday they could be even further adrift.
A difficult spell for the Magpies kicked off in the worst way imaginable, as they were beaten 4-0 by Leicester.
Despite a decent first half, the game quickly slipped away from Eddie Howe’s side as the Foxes’ quality shone through.
It would’ve taken a four-goal swing, but Newcastle could have moved above Watford on Sunday. Just a standard three points would have drawn them level, and proven there truly is hope in this relegation dog fight.
But attention could turn to the Championship once again if things go against us this week.
Burnley, Watford and Norwich will hope to damage Newcastle’s survival hopes
While we face an unenviable trip to Liverpool, our rivals have chances to put points on the board.
On Tuesday night, Norwich welcome Aston Villa to Carrow Road. While Villa look decent since Steven Gerrrard’s arrival, Dean Smith will have high hopes of getting a win against his former side. A point would move them above us and condemn us to 20th position.
There’s an even bigger game on Wednesday, as 18th plays 17th. Burnley entertain Watford, in a game that can only end badly for the Magpies. Someone has to get something out of the game. A draw would probably be best for Newcastle, although it would extend Watford’s gap to four points.
All the talk has been about Newcastle’s horrendous run of fixtures. We play Manchester City on Sunday, then it’s Manchester United on December 27th. It couldn’t get much worse for Newcastle. But it will get worse if our rivals start getting points while we take on the big boys.
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